Employment & Labor Law

Maryland employment and labor laws exist to protect the rights of both employees and employers, covering everything from fair pay and safe working conditions to anti-discrimination protections and leave entitlements. Understanding your rights is essential to maintaining a fair and productive workplace, and our legal team is here to help you navigate complex employment matters.

Key Areas of Employment and Labor Law in Maryland

1. Wage and Hour Laws

Maryland’s wage and hour laws set standards for fair pay, including:

• Minimum Wage: Maryland’s minimum wage rate is currently higher than the federal minimum wage. Specific rates may vary based on the size of the employer, and counties may have additional minimum wage requirements.
• Overtime Pay: Non-exempt employees are generally entitled to time-and-a-half pay for any hours worked over 40 in a week.
• Wage Payment Laws: Maryland law requires timely and accurate wage payments and provides guidelines for final paychecks upon termination.

2. Anti-Discrimination Protections

Both federal and Maryland state laws protect employees from workplace discrimination based on:

• Protected Characteristics: These include race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, and more.
• Harassment: Harassment based on protected characteristics is illegal, and employers must take reasonable steps to prevent and address it.
• Retaliation: It is unlawful for employers to retaliate against employees who report discrimination, participate in investigations, or exercise their legal rights.

If you’ve experienced discrimination or harassment, you may be eligible to file a claim with the Maryland Commission on Civil Rights or the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission (EEOC).

3. Family and Medical Leave

The Maryland Flexible Leave Act and federal Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) provide eligible employees with job-protected leave for certain medical and family-related reasons:

• FMLA Leave: Eligible employees may take up to 12 weeks of unpaid leave for specific family and medical reasons, including childbirth, adoption, or a serious health condition.
• Paid Sick and Safe Leave: Maryland law also requires certain employers to provide paid sick and safe leave, which can be used for personal illness, family caregiving, or dealing with domestic violence situations.

4. Workplace Safety and Health

Maryland follows federal Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) guidelines and has additional state safety regulations to ensure safe working conditions. Employees have the right to a workplace free of recognized hazards and may report unsafe conditions without fear of retaliation.

5. Wrongful Termination and At-Will Employment

Maryland is an “at-will” employment state, meaning employers may generally terminate employment at any time and for any lawful reason. However, exceptions exist:

• Wrongful Termination: Termination may be unlawful if it violates discrimination laws, breaches an employment contract, or results from retaliation.
• Retaliatory Termination: Employees cannot be fired for reporting legal violations, filing for workers' compensation, or asserting their rights under Maryland labor laws.

If you believe you’ve been wrongfully terminated, consulting an attorney can help you explore your legal options.

Why Work with Us?

Employment disputes can have serious impacts on both employees and businesses. Our experienced team understands Maryland’s employment laws and can help you address issues like wage disputes, wrongful termination, workplace discrimination, and more. Whether you’re an employee seeking justice or an employer looking to comply with complex regulations, we’re here to provide the guidance and advocacy you need.